Best Cabelas Waders Reviewed and Rated for Quality
MaggieT 
Dan Novak There's nothing that will quite ruin your perfect fishing or hunting trip like tromping around in totally soaked socks. At best this will weigh you down and drive you insane with their squelching sound, and at worst it will leave you with a case of trench foot.
And while you might think that a pair of waterproof socks will help you, they will be little use without some serious, designed-for-the-occasion waders to go along with them. Cabelas waders fit this bill to a T and will provide durable comfort and protection, all at a price that won't give you a heart attack.
So whether you're looking for a great pair of fishing waders, or you need hunting waders to take on your next duck hunt, Cabelas has got you covered.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 11 hrs of research
Fleece-lined handwarmer pocket
Insulated boots for warmth
Stretchy and flexible nylon and neoprene
Extra pockets for storage
Sewn-in knee and shin guards
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Spring Run™ 5mm Felt 1,000-grams - Premium Breathable Waist-High
- m Stockingfoot
- Premium Breathable Stockingfoot Men's
- Classic 3.5mm Chest Hunting
- CaSuperMag™ Hunting Chest
- Premium Breathable Stockingfoot Women’s
- Premium Zip Breathable Stockingfoot
- Classic Series II Neoprene Boot-Foot
- Three Forks Stockingfoot Hip
10 Best Cabelas Waders
1. Spring Run™ 5mm Felt 1,000-grams
Fleece-lined handwarmer pocket
Insulated boots for warmth
Stretchy and flexible nylon and neoprene
Extra pockets for storage
Sewn-in knee and shin guards
No studded soles for walking on ice
We kick off our list with the Spring Run™ 5mm Felt 1,000-grams. They are a premium Cabelas gear, and while they will cost a few extra bucks, you can rest assured that you’re getting a product that can stand up--and well--to the test of time as some of the best fishing waders out there.
These boot foot waders are designed to be worn in the chilly weather of early and late steelhead fishing season when there’s still plenty of ice and snow about, and are the best Cabelas fishing waders for the occasion.
Made Using High-Tech Neoprene
The Spring Run™ 5mm Felt 1,000-grams are designed to keep you warm and comfortable, no matter how brutal the outside elements are. These Cabelas chest waders offer the most coverage out there and will keep you protected from errant waves, slips in the stream, and unpredictability of reeling in a big one.
These chest highs are made from high-tech neoprene (Neostretch 5mm) that stretches and moves with you for ultimate comfort and flexibility, and are lined with elastic webbing. They come up high in the back with a cross strap to provide more coverage, warmth, and comfort, and can be fully adjusted to suit your body.
There is a D-ring attached at the front of each strap, as well as a D-ring at the back to attach a landing net if necessary.
You’ll find comfort in the front handwarmer pocket that can be accessed on either side. This pocket is lined with fleece and even features a pocket for your heat pack so you can dip your mitts in there to bring your fingers back to life.
On this pocket, there is also a sealable velcro pocket with entry right above the label, as well as mesh pockets on the front under the label for storing gear that needs to be kept close at hand.
We love that this product comes with reinforced knees to ensure that you won’t be running through these any time soon. These Armor-Flex protectors are sewn in and extend from the upper knee to the mid-shin area.
Fully Insulated Boots
But the insulating warmth doesn’t stop at the boot! The boots on these Spring Runs feature 1,000 gram Ultra Insulation Thinsulate which provides tons of warming comfort that won’t weigh you down.
These boots have felt outsoles that deliver tons of traction, though it is important to be aware of the potential issues with using felt soles in regards to transferring invasive species from one fishing environment to another.
We go into detail in our Frequently Asked Questions section below on how to best care for these types of outsoles, but it is important that you check on your state’s laws regarding the use of this product type.
These come in men’s whole sizes from 8-14.
Cost and Value
The Spring Run™ 5mm Felt 1,000-grams ring up towards the top of our price range, but they are loaded with so many features and are so durable and comfortably constructed that it only makes sense that you would have to shell out a few extra bucks.
2. Premium Breathable Waist-High
Nice and breathable
Booties are contoured with grips
Gaiters are elastic and rustproof
Seams are taped inside and out
Knees are three times reinforced
Booties less durable than the rest
These are our go-to favorite for warm summer fishing days in rivers that are streaming with glacial and snowmelt. These help to keep your lower half warm in the freezing waters while allowing your upper half to be cool in the warm summer air.
These are stockingfoot waders and will need to be paired with your favorite pair of wading boots.
Made to Optimize Mobility
These waders are redesigned and reimagined to provide more mobility and a freer range of motion than ever before, and they really showcase all that Cabelas designers can do.
The shell is made of nylon with a tight micro denier weave. All of the seams are taped on the inside as well as the outside to ensure 100% waterproofing that you can count on. And we absolutely love that the knees on this product are reinforced three times for maximum protection against rips and tears.
Non-Slip Booties
The Premium Breathable Waist-Highs feature booties or stockingfeet that are made from 3mm neoprene. This fabric is soft and flexible and will provide a lot of breathability. They are shaped to form to your foot nicely and they feature grips on the bottom so that they won’t slip around in your wading boots once you have put them on.
You can choose to wear these with or without your favorite pair of waterproof socks.
The gaiters that slip over the booties are made of nylon. They have elastic cuffs that are rubberized, as well as hooks for the laces that are rustproof.
These come in men’s sizes small through XX-large.
Cost and Value
This product rings up in the middle of our price range and we love their value because they are the perfect companion for warm weather fishing in freezing rivers and because they are reinforced to be more durable while still providing a freer range of motion.
3. m Stockingfoot
Reinforced booties on the bottom
Gravel guards for added protection
Fully adjustable suspenders
Breathable neoprene composition
Handwarmer pocket on front
These tend to run a little small
This is one of our favorites because they are the perfect weight to suit your year-round needs. They are tough, functional, and perhaps best of all, super comfortable for long days out in the water.
Built-In Suspenders
The 5mm Stockingfoots are made from breathable neoprene that will keep you comfortable in the summer as well as warm in the winter. All seams on this suit a taped, glued, and finally stitched to ensure that no chilly leaks find their way into the inside of your suit.
This suit features a handwarmer pocket on the front with access on either side. You will be able to get the perfect fit for your body by adjusting the suspenders that have buckles that are quick-release for your convenience.
Three Piece Foot Construction
The 5mm Stockingfoots utilize some unique technology in the footing to make these more comfortable and more natural feeling during wear. They feature a three-piece foot construction which works to keep the bootie from bunching up uncomfortably in your boot. The booties are reinforced on the bottom with high-density neoprene. This prolongs the life of the booty and makes them more durable.
Plus, your purchase comes with slip over gravel guards to add even more protection against rips and punctures, and to keep painful sharp stones out of your waders.
Cost and Value
These ring up in the low middle of our price range and we love their value because they can literally function well in year-round weather and because waders are often a large investment it is incredible that these can fulfill so many different needs at such a low price point.
4. Premium Breathable Stockingfoot Men's
Contoured booties for comfort
Double taped seams for waterproofing
More total body coverage
Removable suspenders
Triple reinforced knees
No handwarmers
These are similar to the Premium Breathable Waist-Highs above, but these are chest waders so they offer more body coverage. If your fishing conditions can often verge on totally unpredictable, then this could be the perfect product for you.
Triple Reinforced Knees
This product is made from woven nylon that is super durable and tough enough to handle whatever your fishing trip throws at it. In fact, the knees in this product are tripe reinforced so you don’t have to worry about blowing out a knee and having to replace your whole suit. All of the seams on this product are double taped to safeguard against leaks.
We like that the upper on this option features a drawstring closure and that you can choose to remove the suspender system if you wish. You’ll also enjoy the use of a large pocket on the inside of the suit to store valuables or necessary gear that you want nearby. This product comes with its own wading belt which you should absolutely always wear for safety.
Nylon Gaiters
The Premium Breathable Stockingfoot Fishings also feature a contoured footing setup that makes for a more comfortable wear--especially when you’re in these bad boys all day long. They have added grips on the bottom so you won’t slip and slide in your boots. This product comes with gaiters made from nylon that have cuffs to keep them in place. The hooks for the laces are rustproof.
This product comes in sizes small through XX-large.
Cost and Value
These waders ring up in the middle of our price range and we love their value because they offer more total coverage while allowing you some options over the fit and configuration. Plus, they are durably stitched and reinforced for long-lasting enjoyment.
5. Classic 3.5mm Chest Hunting
Jersey inner locks in body heat
Laminated outer is 100% waterproof
Reinforced knees
Cleated boots for traction
Handwarmer pocket
Some issues with sizing consistency
These are designed with the rugged outdoorsman in mind. These are great duck hunting waders as they are not only are these puppies 100% waterproof from head to toe, but they are also super cozy and warm and work to trap in your own body heat during long days out in the cold.
Waterproof Laminating to Jersey
This product is 100% waterproof from tip to toe. The nylon jersey base which works to trap in all of your body’s warming body heat is laminated in a 3.5mm neoprene that still maintains remarkable flexibility.
You will be able to adjust the suspenders which are made of nylon webbing, and they also feature YKK quick-release buckles to make getting in and out of them a breeze.
We like that there are built-in belt loops for the wading belt which is provided with your purchase. Remember: always keep this wading belt tight and secure for your safety.
There is a handwarmer pocket on the front of the suit which has an additional pocket for storage with a loop and hook closure. There are also 6 shotgun shell pockets for your convenience on the front of the handwarmer.
This product also features knees with extra reinforcement, as well as more room in the crotch for a more comfortable fit.
Wading Rubber Boots
The Classic 3.5mm Chest Huntings feature full wading rubber boots. These boots are lined with Thinsulate Insulation (3M 600-gram) which work to keep your foot fully insulated without adding a ton of bulk to the boot.
The soles of the boot are cleated and deliver serious traction--no matter the terrain.
Cost and Value
These waders ring up towards the top of our price range and we love their value because they are reinforced in all the right areas for true waterproofing that you can count on and for years of productive use. And you won’t need to purchase extra boots or a wading belt as this comes with all of the gear you need.
6. CaSuperMag™ Hunting Chest
Removable gear pouch on front
Original style boots for comfort
Handwarmer pocket
Tons of storage
Tons of warmth and durability
Neoprene makes a swishing noise
The CaSuperMag™ 1,600-Gram Hunting Chests are the most premium product on our list and it shows. With more attention to detail and more added features, you’ll get everything you need out of this pair of hunting waders--and more.
24 Casing Storage
The CaSuperMag™ 1,600-Gram Hunting Chests are more durably made and have more added features than any other product on our list--which explains why you’ll have to shell out a few extra bucks for these.
This suit is cased in neoprene that measures 5mm thick and is coated in Armor-Flex. This coating is not only one of the most durable on the market, but it is also still super flexible so your range of motion won’t be inhibited.
On the front of the suit is a pouch that detaches for convenience in loading all of your gear. On this pouch, you’ll get 24 places to store casings as well as other gear you want close at hand.
There is a handwarmer pocket complete with a pouch for a handwarmer that can be accessed on both sides and that is lined with fleece for warmth. An additional pocket is located on top of this for more storage, as well as 3 separate open pockets for more gear.
Air-Bob Boot Soles
This product is rounded out with boot feet that are treated with as much thought as the upper part of the waders.
The boots are insulated with Thinsulate Ultra (1,600 gram) which trap in heat like you wouldn’t imagine without adding unnecessary and cumbersome bulk.
After listening to customer feedback, Cabelas reinstated the construction on the boots to the original model and added air-bob soles which provide the perfect traction and supports for long days out on the hunt.
These come in whole men’s shoe sizes 8 through 15.
Cost and Value
These ring up at the very top of our price range but we like their value because they have literally everything that you could ever need in a wader in one package that is still a fraction of the cost of other premium brands.
7. Premium Breathable Stockingfoot Women’s
No-slip booties
Contoured booties for comfort
Synched waist for women’s body
Super breathable material
Reinforced knees
No pockets
This is the same great product we feature above at Number 4, except for these are made for women. They are shaped to tailor specifically to a woman’s body in order to give them the same warmth and waterproofing protection.
Synched at Waist
These are made using 4MOST DRY-PLUS. This technology makes the suit super breathable while also ensuring that it is 100% waterproof. The double taped seams also work to ensure no leaks occur.
The shell on this suit is made of nylon and is super durable. The knees are triple reinforced for longevity as well.
The waist on this product is synched to accommodate a woman’s body.
No-Slip Grip
The Premium Breathable Stockingfoot Fishings feature booties that are made to contour to the foot and that are outfitted with grips on the bottom so as not to slip around in your boots.
You can purchase these in women’s sizes small to X-large.
Cost and Value
The Premium Breathable Stockingfoot Fishings ring up in the middle of our price range and we love their value because they offer full-body warmth in a durable package that is 100% waterproof and tailored to a woman’s body.
8. Premium Zip Breathable Stockingfoot
Fully waterproof zipper
Super comfortable booties
Triple reinforced knees
Double taped seams
Comes with wading belt
No external pockets
These are the same amazing waders that you find at Number 4, but this time with a zipper.
Waterproof Zipper
These are made from 4MOST DRY-PLUS material which works in tandem with double taped zippers to keep these puppies waterproof. Add on top of that the waterproof zipper, and you’ve got a combination that can’t be beaten. The zipper is reinforced and seals tight to ensure no water penetrates through. And the durable shell comprised of nylon along with the triple-reinforced knees delivers tons of strength and resistance to wear and tear.
This product comes with its own wading belt. It has an internal pocket for storage.
Comfortable Booties
The Premium Zip Breathable Stockingfoot Fishings come with comfortable booties encased in 3mm of neoprene padding. They shape to the foot, have grips, and are comfortable enough to wear all day long.
These come available in men’s whole sizes small through XX-large.
Cost and Value
These ring up in the middle of our price range and we like their value because they offer an easier way to get in and out of your waders for those who maybe have a little less mobility. And all of this without sacrificing waterproofing capabilities.
9. Classic Series II Neoprene Boot-Foot
Cleated outsoles for traction
Dual handwarmer pocket
D-rings to attach gear
Holds in warmth
Made for the whole family
Some issues with sizing
These are a great option for the whole family. These are made for women, men, and youth so everyone can get the comfort and protection they need for long slogs outdoors.
Traps in Warmth
The Classic Series II Neoprene Boot-Foots trap in warmth with its 3.5mm thick neoprene.
This suit comes with sewn-in extra padding in the knees for more support and durability over time.
The adjustable shoulder straps are made from nylon and are finished with buckles that release quickly to make getting in and out of the waders easy.
A wading belt of nylon is included with your purchase.
You will enjoy the double handwarmer pocket which features an additional hook and latch pocket on top for fast access. There are also 3 D-rings on the front of the suit so that you can attach gear with ease.
Ozone-Resistant Boots
The Classic Series II Neoprene Boot-Foots feature ozone-resistant boots. These are made from rubber and are lined with Thinsulate (200-gram 3M) for warmth without the bulk. The boots are finished with cleated lugs for better traction on the outsoles.
Cost and Value
The Classic Series II Neoprene Boot-Foots ring up in the middle of our price range and we like their value because it offers up affordable warmth and durability for the whole family.
10. Three Forks Stockingfoot Hip
Super inexpensive
Reinforced seams
Cushioned booties
Coated in PVC
Booties stretch out
These are a great example of what Cabelas hip waders are all about. They are heavy duty and comfortable and will hold up for seasons to come at pennies on the dime per wear.
Coated with PVC
These waders are made by nylon (420-denier) that is given a good coating of PVC for supreme durability. These have reinforced seams to protect against leaks as well. With stronger snap straps, they will remain securely in place attached to your belt.
Cushioned Booties
This product features cushioned booties that will provide supreme comfort during even the longest days out in the water. They are covered with neoprene that is 3mm thick for added protection.
Cost and Value
These ring up at the bottom of our price range and we like their value because they are a perfect budget companion for creeks and streams that are small and shallow.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Materials
When selecting the products for this Ten Best List, we considered the materials that each product is made out of. This helps us to see how warm a product will be, how waterproof it will be, how resistant to damage and wear and tear it will be, and how comfortable it will be overall.
Durability
In terms of durability, we value products that are coated in PVC or have a thicker laminate or outer shell which serves to protect the body of the suit and works to extend its life. Of course, if the waders develop rips or holes, they will not be of any use.
We also value products that have reinforced seams, as well as reinforced knees to extend the lifetime of the waders and ensure that you get your money’s worth out of this investment.
Comfort
When considering comfort, we look at how the overall fit settles, what the feel and roominess are like, and how comfortable the boots or booties are. We also look at how breathable and season-appropriate each product is.
Size
In terms of sizing, we look both at how true to size a product fits and at how the product is sized. It is important to note that boot foot and stockingfoot waders are sized differently. See our Expert Tips below for more on this.
Value
And we look at value. We love the products on this list because they are durable and follow through with their product missions (whether it be to breathe or keep warm and always to be waterproof). And these waders do this at literally ¼ the cost of you super premium waders (and sometimes even less than that).
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Materials Durability Comfort Size Value
When purchasing waders, there are a lot of sizing dimensions to keep in mind, so this process can be complicated. We’re here with some tips to make selecting the right size a little bit easier.
The style of the product is going to have a lot to do with your size selection.
If you are getting a bootfoot product, then you are going to be ordering according to your shoe size. When looking at the size chart provided (which you should always do!), each shoe size will come with a reported chest and inseam range associated with it. These should generally be in the same range.
However, if you are finding that the shoe size you need is not correlating correctly with the rest of the measurements, we always recommend going a size up. If this still doesn’t seem like it will accommodate you, then you may find yourself in the market for stockingfoot waders instead.
Stockingfoot waders come in a range of shoe sizes and allow you to get more precise measurements in the body of the wader. You will be able to purchase your own wading boots that fit your feet specifically so that you can get the right proportions for you.
Listen up and listen carefully! Few things on this earth are more unpredictable than the water that runs on and through it. It doesn’t matter how well you know an area or a waterway--sometimes the unexpected just happens. And when it does, you should be prepared for the worst.
That’s why you should always wear your wading belt when wearing waist-high or chest waders.
If you fall into the water with waders on and no wading belt, water will rapidly fill up your waders and weigh you down immensely. This is extremely dangerous and can lead to drowning.
A wading belt works to synch the waist to help keep water out and keep the air inside trapped. Trapping the air inside helps to keep you afloat and buys you precious time in getting to shore or back into your boat.
So hear us! This is not a frill accessory. Having this could very well end up saving your life in the event of an emergency.
Other Factors to Consider
Accessories
In terms of accessories, we like products that come with their own wading belts, as well as products that come with added storage for specific hunting gear like shotgun shells.
Breathability
We looked at the breathability of the products on this list as well. While not all of our products have the goal of being super breathable, and are rather designed to lock in body heat, some are meant for warmer seasons and need to be breathable so that sweat doesn’t pool and create a different unwanted moisture source.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: Should I avoid felt outsoles?
Great question. These types of outsoles have come under fire as they have the potential to trap microorganisms and other bacteria from one fishing ground and transfer them to another. But they provide some of the most reliable traction on the slimy and slick river rocks you are bound to encounter. So what to do?
As long as you are conscious and keep on top of your wader maintenance, this shouldn’t be a problem. Here’s what you can do.
Always make sure that hose your waders down nice and good after each use. You want to get all the visible muck and gunk off, and a hose will usually do the trick, though you may want to employ the use of a veggie brush.
Once you’ve done this, LET YOUR WADERS DRY COMPLETELY. This is the biggest key. Exposure to direct sunlight for at least a day or two (although some experts say that depending on the light and strength of the sun where you are, you might require 5 days to fully dry out your waders).
If you do not have 5 days to wait, you can submerge your wader boots in hot water of 120 degrees for at least 30 minutes. Combining this mixture with salt or vinegar will help to kill invasive species left behind.
While these steps may seem like a lot, it is important to remember the impact that invasive species can have on your favorite fishing holes. If you love something, take care of it. That’s our motto.
q: What do I attach my hip waders to?
You will simply be attaching your hip waders to your belt. Each product comes with a strap on outside of the thigh. This strap extends up and will thread under your belt. Then thread the strap over the belt and fasten the button to secure the strap.
Remember to make sure your belt is nice and tight so you don’t end up pantsing yourself while you are out on the water. While your buddies might find this funny, you won’t be able to live it down.
q: Which waders are the most breathable?
Excellent question. Typically, most breathable products are constructed from polyester or nylon. These are lighter weight and allow more air to pass through.
Many of these products also employ a Gore-Tex membrane which keeps large water droplets out while letting smaller water vapor particles escape from the inside. This helps to prevent the build-up of sweat which would basically defeat the purpose of having waterproof waders on in the first place.
Sources
- , Why Should I Wear a Wading Belt?, Article
- , How to Clean Your Waders and Wading Boots, Article
- , How to Use Hip Boots, Article
